The Byzantine Empire, located in the East of the Roman Empire, was a powerful and influential state that lasted for over 1,100 years. While the empire has long been relegated to the dusty pages of history, it remains a fascinating topic, and teaching students about its capital city, Constantinople, can be an excellent way to spark their interest in the period.
The first step in teaching about Constantinople and the Byzantine Empire is to provide some context for the historical period. Students should understand the basic timeline of the Byzantine Empire, including its formation in the 4th century, the reign of Justinian in the 6th century, and the eventual collapse of the empire in 1453.
Once students have a basic understanding of the historical context, it’s important to introduce the city of Constantinople itself. Constantinople was originally known as Byzantium, a small Greek colony on the Bosporus Strait. In 330 AD, Roman Emperor Constantine I chose the city as the site for his new capital, renaming it Constantinople. The city was strategically located between Europe and Asia, and its position on the Bosporus Strait made it an ideal location for trade and commerce.
One of the most famous features of Constantinople was its massive walls and gates, which were built to protect the city from invaders. The walls were up to 40 feet high and up to 30 feet thick, and they were lined with towers and fortifications. The city also boasted several massive gates, including the Golden Gate, which was said to be made of solid gold.
Another significant feature of the city was the Hagia Sophia, a massive domed cathedral that was built in the 6th century. The church was one of the largest and most impressive in the world at the time, and its dome is still considered an engineering marvel. The Hagia Sophia would go on to become a symbol of the Byzantine Empire and was later converted into a mosque by the Ottomans after their conquest of the city.
Finally, students should be taught about the role of Constantinople in the Byzantine Empire’s political and cultural life. As the capital of the empire, Constantinople was home to the emperor and the most important political and cultural institutions. The city was a center of learning and arts, with some of the world’s most significant literary and artistic works emanating from its walls.
